In a candid conversation on the Rock Solid: Round Rock Business Leaders Podcast, Texas attorney Jeff Barnett of Barnett & Leuty warns families about the dangers of do-it-yourself estate planning documents, which he says can cost families dearly if errors are made. The episode, titled "Jeff Barnett | Estate Planning Mistakes That Can Cost Your Family," was published August 18, 2026, and is hosted by Bryan Eisenberg.
Barnett, who has over 30 years of legal experience, says the biggest mistake he sees is people relying on documents pulled from the internet or generated by AI. "I would never do my own dental work. I'm not a trained dentist," he tells Eisenberg. "Very, very intelligent people, doctors, engineers, architects, even CPAs, will miss nuances that need to be in a will in Texas. They'll leave out a word, and that word makes a huge difference in what probate looks like."
The episode outlines the five essential documents every adult should have: a will, medical power of attorney, durable power of attorney, directive to physicians, and agent for disposition of remains. Barnett stresses that every 18-year-old should have medical and durable powers of attorney before leaving for college, as parents cannot make medical decisions for adult children without them.
Barnett also explains how Texas probate compares to states like California, Massachusetts, and New York, and when tools like a Lady Bird deed or Medicaid asset protection trust make sense—and when they do not. He notes that blended families and prior marriages can complicate intestate succession, making professional guidance even more critical.
The conversation draws on Eisenberg's work operating a home care agency alongside his wife, and their involvement with the Parenting Aging Parents community founded by Austin natives Kim and Mike Barnes. Barnett urges adult children to start uncomfortable conversations early: Do your parents have a will? Who drafted it? When was it last updated? Where is it stored? He warns that an early dementia diagnosis does not automatically disqualify someone from executing documents, but waiting is the single worst move.
Barnett highlights that Barnett & Leuty offers free consultations, ensuring clients aren't charged from the outset. The pair also touch on Round Rock's growth, the new art center, Music on Main, and the region's role as one of the country's largest senior communities alongside Georgetown's Sun City.
Episode 87 of Rock Solid is available now wherever podcasts are heard. The podcast, hosted by bestselling author and keynote speaker Bryan Eisenberg and produced by Round Rock Studio, explores the journeys of entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and organizations shaping Round Rock, Texas.
